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Message: <blockquote data-quote="DinoInDisguise" data-source="post: 9676607" data-attributes="member: 7045806">On the off chance of stepping on Micah's toes, I think I might have some insight.There seems to be a disconnect between thinking in terms of narrative satisfaction or group fun balance, and the perspective of a simulationist GM. For the latter, the “job” isn’t to ensure every moment is maximally fun for the table, it’s to present a world that behaves according to its own internal logic. That means actions have realistic consequences, even if those are slow, quiet, or seemingly uneventful.In my cave, I’ve come to understand it is by thinking in terms of three broad lenses;<ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Narrativist lens: “Is this satisfying storytelling?”</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Gamist lens: “Is this a fun and engaging challenge?”</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Simulationist lens: “Is this what would really happen in this world?”</li> </ul>So when Micah talks about not being there to simply keep the players happy, I think that reflects this difference in view. The same goes for situations like the one you raise, where some players are into what’s happening, and others aren’t. From a simulationist lens, that’s not necessarily a problem that needs solving; it’s just what naturally occurred based on the players’ choices and the world’s response.Some players, and GMs. take enjoyment from watching what unfolds naturally, without needing to adjust the pacing or inject drama to keep everyone entertained in a traditional sense.Micah’s point that players act in their own interest or enjoyment doesn’t contradict this perspective. It actually reinforces it. Everyone at the table is engaging with the world in the way that satisfies them most, and for simulationist GMs, that includes the satisfaction of watching a world that runs “true.”I came out of my cave early, so I have not fully reflected and could be wrong. But that’s how I’m reading it. And under that interpretation, I don’t see any contradiction in Micah’s position.</blockquote>

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